Morocco international Hakim Ziyech insists his move to Brazilian club Botafogo is motivated by ambition and a desire to compete, rather than an attempt to wind down his career.
The 33-year-old has signed a contract with Botafogo until the end of 2028 after leaving Moroccan giants Wydad Athletic Club following a brief spell with the Casablanca side.
Ziyech believes he still has plenty to offer and says his decision to move to Brazil reflects his determination to continue competing at the highest level.
“I did not come to Brazil to end my career. On the contrary. I signed with Botafogo until the end of 2028 because I still have ambition and the desire to win,” Ziyech told Africa Foot.
The former Ajax and Chelsea attacker said he was looking for a fresh challenge when the opportunity to join Botafogo emerged.
He was also attracted by the passion surrounding Brazilian football and the ambitions of his new club.
Ziyech now wants to make his experience count on the pitch by helping Botafogo achieve their objectives.
“I want to play, score goals, provide assists, and help the team achieve its objectives. I know what I can still bring. Now it is up to me to prove it on the pitch,” he said.
Reports indicate that Ziyech’s Botafogo contract could earn him around 850,000 Brazilian reals per month, equivalent to approximately $165,000, with performance-related bonuses potentially increasing the figure to one million reals, or about $195,000.
The move marks another chapter in a career that has taken Ziyech through some of Europe’s biggest clubs, including Ajax and Chelsea.
Before heading to Brazil, the Moroccan spent a short period at Wydad, where he scored nine goals and provided two assists in 16 appearances.
Although his latest move takes him away from Morocco, Ziyech insists it does not represent a break with his roots or his country.
Instead, he believes Botafogo provides the environment in which he can rediscover his best form and continue competing with purpose.
The Moroccan forward will now look to turn his words into performances as he begins what he describes as a new chapter in his career.
For Ziyech, the challenge is clear: prove that his move to Brazil represents another ambitious step rather than the closing stage of his football journey.
